I am all for more revenue streams for coaches but I have seen children. They are tiny and don’t have jobs. Maybe, just don’t give them a screen to start with : ) Let me share what I did with my nephews (And they hated it). I have a rule … no phones in the car. Well, not exactly no phones. They are perfectly allowed to use their phones. And if they do I pull over and start using my phone.

It takes a bit for them to notice. They are engrossed in their phones after-all. But after a few minutes they notice something odd, the boys look up, look around, and then ask: “Why aren’t we moving” My reply: oh, I thought we were using phones not Driving to Busch Gardens. The phones go-away and childhood is resumed.

Importantly, there is more to this than merely demanding the kids be bored in the car which is an entirely healthy attitude. Boredom breeds creativity and independence. Boredom stimulates minds and builds relationships. Additionally, the destination is so much more rewarding when the “trip” was not constant small does of dopamine force the brain to numb and the experience becomes just meh.

The boys are older now and the still talk about the many adventures: including the drives. If you want to reduce your kids screen time just do it. You don’t need permission, you don’t need a coach. You are bigger than they are, the don’t have jobs or money, and they will listen. With that said, if you need a coach … well not me but I am glad to hook you up with some that can help you.

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Ennis Lynch

Ennis Lynch is a Professional Coach Based in South Florida. His primary area of coaching focuses on coaching Software Engineering Leadership. On occasion he does Agile Transformation work as well but prefers coaching at the Team and Individual level vs. the organizational level.

If you have ever wondered: is professional coaching right for me and you are a Software Engineering Manager, Director of Engineering, Director of Software Engineering, VP of Engineering, or CTO reach out for a free initial coaching session. See if coaching is right for you. Initial coaching sessions are the real deal, no hard-sells, no "here is what you would get if you paid". Individuals that receive a free coaching session will get a normal private professional coaching session of 90 minutes (30 minute onboarding + 60 minute coaching) and it will be up to you to follow-up if you want to continue with help on your journey.

Ennis is always gathering research through a team building exercise called the Ball Point Game. If you are interested in a team-level exercise and want to participate in a research project to further the field reach out. The exercise is free in South Florida (and really fun)